The Canal Link project is part of the Interreg North Sea Region IIIB Programme. The Interreg III programmes are a European Community Initiative to stimulate transnational cooperation in the EU between 2000 and 2006. Interreg IIIB programmes cover larger transnational areas and the North Sea Region comprises areas of Sweden, Denmark, Germany, The Netherlands, The Flemish Region of Belgium, UK and Norway. The areas in the region share many of the same problems and challenges and by working together and sharing knowledge and experiences it is hoped that a sustainable and balanced future will be secured for the whole region.

The programme is financed through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), a Norwegian equivalent and contributions from all of the countries involved.

The Canal Link project

The North Sea Region network of navigable inland waterways - canals, rivers and lakes - was originally developed for the transport of goods. More recently, tourism and recreation on these waterways have grown in importance. They are increasingly recognised for the economic, social and environmental benefits they produce. Canal Link will investigate how the waterways can be futher developed with due regard to their cultural and evironmental heritage.